Mercedes-Benz
EQE SUV
Tesla
Model X
Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV vs Tesla Model X: 2023 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Tesla Model X comes out ahead of the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
EQE SUV
Overall
Mixed to negative sentiment overall, with a significant divide between the vehicle's inherent qualities and pervasive software/electronic reliability issues. When functional, the EQE SUV is praised for its extremely comfortable ride, quiet and refined interior, advanced technology like the Hyperscreen, and features such as rear-wheel steering and air suspension. However, a very frequent and severe criticism centers on persistent software glitches, electronic malfunctions, and poor build quality that lead to repeated workshop visits.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best" trim. Feedback indicates the 500 and AMG variants are appreciated for their power and handling, with specific praise for the AMG's braking performance.
Known issues
- ⚠Software glitches and electronic malfunctions: includes infotainment freezes, random system reboots while driving, failure to recognize phones, incorrect charging calculations, faulty door handle sensors, and erroneous collision warnings.
- ⚠Phantom braking and driver assistance faults: random emergency braking interventions, false collision warnings, driver aids disabling mid-drive. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Interior build quality and material decline: increased use of hard plastics, thinner metal speaker grills, easily scuffed piano black trim, less plush materials than previous Mercedes generations. Frequency: recurrent.
Model X
Overall
Sentiment is mixed and heavily dependent on model year and generation. Long-term owner reports for high-mileage examples (e.g., 350,000 miles) highlight impressive battery durability with minimal degradation and low maintenance costs, fostering strong positive sentiment regarding powertrain longevity and efficiency. However, there is a very frequent and sharp criticism regarding build quality, reliability, and quality control across multiple model years, particularly for the S and X platforms compared to the Model 3/Y.
Best version to buy
Insufficient owner data available to declare a consensus "best version." Owner discussions indicate important generational divides: post-March 2018 vehicles with the MCU2 (Intel) infotainment are considered the minimum viable for features like Sentry Mode. The May 2019 "Raven" update is noted for improved suspension, motors, and range.
Known issues
- ⚠Poor build quality and reliability: very frequent mentions of squeaks, rattles, odd noises, and various quality control defects affecting the S and X platforms. Frequency: very frequent.
- ⚠High repair costs and complexity: cited as inevitable for older models, with few independent specialists and expensive Tesla service parts, particularly concerning for "Legacy" models. Frequency: recurrent.
- ⚠Falcon wing door problems: mentioned as a potential failure point to inspect thoroughly before purchase. Frequency: isolated.
The verdict
The Tesla Model X is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV or the Tesla Model X?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV and the Tesla Model X. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV or the Tesla Model X?
The Tesla Model X seats more passengers than the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV is classed as a SUV, the Tesla Model X as a SUV.
Which has better fuel economy, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV or the Tesla Model X?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV or the Tesla Model X?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Tesla Model X than the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV. See the known issues comparison above.